2. ver Care Ophthalmology Hepatitis C Kidney Center Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Dialysis Genetics Brain Cancer Endoscopy
ar, Nose Throat
& Dental Medicine Cardiac Rehab Anesthesiology daVinci Robot Behavioral Health Imaging Services
reast Imaging CT Scan MRI Neuroradiology Nuclear Medicine PET Scan Maternity Radiation Oncology Radiology Stroke
ltrasonography Endocrinology & Metabolism Hepatology Weight Loss Chronic Pain Asthma Orthopaedics Nutrition Geriatrics
nfectious Disease ALS Nephrology Hypertension Neurology Arthritis Oncology Hematology Neuropathy Bariatric Surgery
Tumors
At Winthrop-University Hospital,
hysical Therapy Children’s Health Angioplasty Critical Care Medicine CyberKnife Rheumatology Allergy Education Breast Cancer
pinal Immunology Maternal-Fetal Medicine Cancer Care Ambulatory Surgery Cardiac Rehab Home Health Care
eproductive Health Endocrinology Infertility Care COPD Urogynecology Research Neurosciences Pathology Alzheimer’s Disease
ulmonary Hypertension
outstanding medical education,
Surgery Diabetes Herniated Discs Oral Maxillofacial
& Surgery Plastic & Reconstructive
igestive Care Urology Neuromuscular Disease Parkinson’s Disease Bed Wetting Hyperbarics Trauma Bereavement Blood
Surgery
Wound Healing Disorders Neurosurgery Breast Feeding Pediatrics Atrial Fibrillation Breast Health Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
cutting-edge biomedical research
olitis & Crohn’s Disease Colon Cancer Pulmonary Emphysema Epilepsy Gallbladder/Disease Heart Care Pancreatic cancer
amily Care Impotence Incontinence Inflammatory Bowel Disease Dystonia Lupus Lyme Disease Tourette Syndrome Melanoma
emory Problems OB/GYN Menopause Spasticity Gastroenterology Men’s Health Parkinson’s Disease Sleep Disorders
oint Replacement Emergency Medicine Tremors Poisoning Pregnancy Prostate Cancer Heart Failure Kidney Disease Seizure Disorders
and state-of-the-art healthcare
exually Transmitted Diseases Headaches Movement Disorders Open Heart Surgery Prostate Care Nuclear Cardiology Lung Cancer
nusitis Dermatology Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Swallowing Disorders Neonatology Memory Disorders Cardiology Travel Medicine
ports medicine Pain Management Vascular Surgery Osteoporosis Clinical Trials Childhood Cancer Liver Care Ophthalmology
epatitis C Kidney Center
come together to create an
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Dialysis Genetics Brain Cancer Endoscopy Ear, Nose Throat
ental Medicine Cardiac Rehab Anesthesiology daVinci Robot Behavioral Health Imaging Services Breast Imaging CT Scan MRI
&
euroradiology Nuclear
Medicine PET
Scan Maternity Radiation Oncology Radiology Stroke Ultrasonography
ideal environment for healing
ndocrinology & Metabolism Hepatology Weight Loss Chronic Pain Asthma Orthopaedics Nutrition Geriatrics Infectious Disease
ALS Nephrology Hypertension Neurology Arthritis Oncology Hematology Neuropathy Bariatric Surgery Physical Therapy
hildren’s Health Angioplasty Critical Care Medicine CyberKnife Rheumatology Allergy Education Breast Cancer Spinal Tumors
Immunology Maternal-Fetal Medicine Cancer Care Ambulatory Surgery Cardiac Rehab Home Health Care Reproductive Health
ndocrinology Infertility
ulmonary Hypertension
Care
Surgery
COPD
Diabetes
patients today—and in
Urogynecology
Herniated Discs
Research Neurosciences
Oral Maxillofacial
& Surgery
Pathology
Plastic
Alzheimer’s Disease
& Reconstructive Surgery
igestive Care Urology Neuromuscular Disease Parkinson’s Disease Bed Wetting Hyperbarics Trauma Bereavement Blood
the years to come.
Wound Healing Disorders Neurosurgery Breast Feeding Pediatrics Atrial Fibrillation Breast Health Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
olitis & Crohn’s Disease Colon Cancer Pulmonary Emphysema Epilepsy Gallbladder/Disease Heart Care Pancreatic cancer
amily Care Impotence Incontinence Inflammatory Bowel Disease Dystonia Lupus Lyme Disease Tourette Syndrome Melanoma
emory Problems OB/GYN Menopause Spasticity Gastroenterology Men’s Health Parkinson’s Disease Sleep Disorders
oint Replacement Emergency Medicine Tremors Poisoning Pregnancy Prostate Cancer Heart Failure Kidney Disease Seizure Disorders
exually Transmitted Diseases Headaches Movement Disorders Open Heart Surgery Prostate Care Nuclear Cardiology Lung Cancer
nusitis Dermatology Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Swallowing Disorders Neonatology Memory Disorders Cardiology Travel Medicine
ports medicine Pain Management Vascular Surgery Osteoporosis Clinical Trials Childhood Cancer Liver Care Ophthalmology
epatitis C Kidney Center Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Dialysis Genetics Brain Cancer Endoscopy Ear, Nose Throat
&
ental Medicine Cardiac Rehab Anesthesiology daVinci Robot Behavioral Health Imaging Services Breast Imaging CT Scan MRI
euroradiology Nuclear
Medicine PET
Scan Maternity Radiation Oncology Radiology Stroke Ultrasonography
ndocrinology & Metabolism Hepatology Weight Loss Chronic Pain Asthma Orthopaedics Nutrition Geriatrics Infectious Disease
ALS Nephrology Hypertension Neurology Arthritis Oncology Hematology Neuropathy Bariatric Surgery Physical Therapy
hildren’s Health Angioplasty Critical Care Medicine CyberKnife Rheumatology Allergy Education Breast Cancer Spinal Tumors
Immunology Maternal-Fetal Medicine Cancer Care Ambulatory Surgery Cardiac Rehab Home Health Care Reproductive Health
ndocrinology Infertility
Care COPD Urogynecology Research Neurosciences Pathology Alzheimer’s Disease
ulmonary Hypertension Surgery Diabetes Herniated Discs Oral Maxillofacial
& Surgery Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
igestive Care Urology Neuromuscular Disease Parkinson’s Disease Bed Wetting Hyperbarics Trauma Bereavement Blood
Wound Healing Disorders Neurosurgery Breast Feeding Pediatrics Atrial Fibrillation Breast Health Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
olitis & Crohn’s Disease Colon Cancer Pulmonary Emphysema Epilepsy Gallbladder/Disease Heart Care Pancreatic cancer
amily Care Impotence Incontinence Inflammatory Bowel Disease Dystonia Lupus Lyme Disease Tourette Syndrome Melanoma
emory Problems OB/GYN Menopause Spasticity Gastroenterology Men’s Health Parkinson’s Disease Sleep Disorders
3. Winthrop-University Hospital 2011 Annual Report
Your Health Means Everything ™
Winthrop-University Hospital’s mission is to provide high quality, safe, culturally competent, and
comprehensive healthcare services in a teaching and research environment which improve the health
and well-being of the residents of Nassau County and contiguous county areas...based on a profound
commitment to an enduring guiding principle, “Your Health Means Everything.”
R ese arch E ducation
H ealthcare
1
4. Winthrop-University Hospital 2011 Annual Report
A Message from the President & CEO and Chairman of the Board
“Our promise is never to accept the status quo.”
Charles M. Strain, Chairman of the Board
For Winthrop-University Hospital, 2011 was another year of Our long-standing academic mission was strengthened in 2011
growth and financial stability, an impressive accomplishment when Winthrop became a Clinical Campus of the Stony Brook
during these economically challenging times. University School of Medicine. As a teaching affiliate prior to
this new designation, Winthrop hosted medical student rotations
We closed the year with an operating margin of 2.83%, dem-
through various clinical departments. As a Clinical Campus,
onstrating the efficiency of our operation, which is driven to
80 third- and fourth-year medical students will live and train
a great extent by our foresight in technology investment and
at Winthrop each year, making Winthrop the only Long Island
the efforts of our dedicated staff to provide superior care that
hospital training students under this model.
results in reduced lengths of stay for patients. Our occupancy
rates remained steady at 91.7%, slightly higher than the 91.1% To ensure our continued success, Winthrop’s board and admin-
reported for 2010. istrative team this year adopted a long-term strategy that focuses
on enhancing our research capabilities and on continuing to
Our clinical achievements last year were impressive. For exam-
identify operational efficiencies.
ple, in 2011 our surgeons achieved a breakthrough in minimally
invasive surgery techniques when they successfully performed
Strengthening research
esophageal surgery by inserting an endoscope through the
Research is the cornerstone of progress in medicine, and
patient’s mouth, thereby avoiding an incision. Natural Orifice
Winthrop historically has had robust programs in basic, clinical
Transluminal Endoscopic Surgery (N.O.T.E.S.) holds great prom-
and health outcomes research. At present, these activities are
ise, and the accomplishment of our surgeons in using the tech-
spread throughout our campus. In 2011, the administration
nique to treat a condition of the esophagus, known as Achalasia,
and the board of directors, in collaboration with our clinical
paves the way for further innovation.
and research faculty, adopted a plan to consolidate all our
research efforts into one new location to be known as The
We remain among the top 5% of hospitals nationwide
Research Institute.
It is not surprising then that HealthGrades, the nation’s most
trusted source of healthcare provider information, has named The Institute will reside in a new, four-floor, 95,000-square-
us a Distinguished Hospital for Clinical Excellence™ for the foot building that will include core laboratories, a clinical trial
fourth consecutive year. This prestigious distinction places center and classrooms for medical students. To enhance our
Winthrop-University Hospital among the Top 5% of hospitals bench-to-bedside research, the facility will include an in-patient
nationwide for clinical performance. area for adult and pediatric endocrine patients. This will increase
John F. Collins, President and Chief Executive Officer, (left), Charles M. Strain, Chairman of the Board (right)
2
6. Winthrop-University Hospital 2011 Annual Report
A Message from the President & CEO and Chairman of the Board (continued)
“Research and education are the driving forces of excellence in healthcare.”
John F. Collins, President and CEO
collaboration among scientists and clinicians researching such We are pleased to report that we were the first and only Long
diseases as diabetes. Island hospital to demonstrate meaningful use of EHR tech
nology during the 2011 federal fiscal year. As a result, the hos-
In addition to research on diabetes, obesity and the cardio
pital qualified for the financial incentive program established
metabolic complications that arise from those conditions, the
by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 and
Institute will focus on other pressing national and local health
received $3.2 million from the U.S. Department of Health and
issues, including reducing premature births and treating condi-
Human Services to continue implementing its IT program.
tions related to aging, such as Alzheimer’s disease and arthritis.
Streamlining and strengthening Winthrop’s research programs Teamwork makes the difference
will make discoveries more readily accessible to patients, will Our successes in 2011 are numerous, and we hope that you
better support our outstanding researchers and will allow us to will learn more about them through reading this report. This
continue attracting nationally recognized faculty and scientists, level of accomplishment is possible only because of the col
all of which support our tri-part mission of patient care, aca- laborative mindset and dedicated efforts of our physicians,
demics and research. nurses, other healthcare professionals, staff, board members
and volunteers.
Boosting patient safety via technology
Every day, we put the health of our patients front and center,
Our decision more than five years ago to invest in and pioneer
and we never forget that your health means everything.
healthcare technology has paid off handsomely. Motivated by
a desire to improve patient safety, Winthrop now boasts an
electronic health record (EHR) system that allows healthcare
providers to input orders electronically, eliminating handwriting
errors, speeding the delivery of medications to the bedside and
John F. Collins
offering an additional system of checks-and-balances to ensure
President & CEO
that patients are receiving their proper medication.
Equally important, the EHR system allows immediate sharing of
crucial patient information among those caring for patients and
paves the way toward the national goal of connecting health-
care providers and patients through compatible, standardized Charles M. Strain
EHR systems nationwide. Chairman of the Board
4
7. in 1896 we were Long Island’s
first voluntary community
hospital with 48 beds.
8. Research Education
Healthcare
Healthcare at Winthrop Cancer Care Digestive Care Family Care
Winthrop-University Hospital Winthrop is certified with From acid reflux to pancreatic From unborn babies and
offers the most sophisticated commendation by the cancer, Winthrop provides premature infants to children
diagnostic and therapeutic American College of comprehensive preventive, of all ages and young adults
care in virtually every spe- Surgeons’ Commission on diagnostic, and interventional through geriatric patients,
cialty and subspecialty of Cancer. The Hospital pro- care for all aspects of gastro- Winthrop provides the full
medicine and surgery. Ever vides a full spectrum of care intestinal (GI) health. With range of healthcare services
changing and growing with from advanced diagnostic specialized programs for for the entire family. Winthrop
the diverse community it technology through surgery, Crohn’s and Colitis, women’s offers comprehensive pro-
serves, Winthrop is a unique chemotherapy, and radiation GI issues, and Hepatitis C, grams in women’s health,
institution that successfully therapy—including the break- and an advanced endoscopy including a high-risk preg-
blends the progressive philos- through treatment CyberKnife ®
program that is paving the nancy program; men’s health,
ophy and sophistication of —for all types of cancer with way in natural orifice translu- featuring the widest range of
a teaching and research insti- outcomes on par with other minal endoscopic surgery options for prostate care; and
tution with a very personal major cancer centers. (N.O.T.E.S.), Winthrop is a a full complement of pediatric
approach to patient care. leader in GI care. generalists and subspecialists.
6
9. ONE of the Best Regional
Hospitals for Cancer Care in
the New York Metro Region
U.S. News & World Report
Heart Care Lung Care Neurosciences Specialty Care
Winthrop’s Heart and Sleep apnea and other sleep Winthrop’s Department of Winthrop also offers a wide
Vascular Institute offers the disorders are diagnosed and Neurosciences provides range of Specialty Care serv
most advanced diagnostic, corrected at Winthrop’s hotel- comprehensive neurological ices including a Bariatric
lifestyle and disease preven- style Sleep Disorders Center and neurosurgical services. Surgery Center of Excellence,
tion programs, as well as —the first sleep center on L.I. Resources at Winthrop include an Orthopaedic program
sophisticated medical treat- to achieve national accredita- a sophisticated 14-bed Neuro that includes experts in joint
ment and cardiac rehabilita- tion more than 20 years ago. sciences Special Care Unit, a replacement and sports medi-
tion, the latest procedures Board-certified pulmonary dedicated Epilepsy Program cine, the Winthrop Diabetes
in interventional cardiology, specialists provide the most and a comprehensive MS Education Center, an unparal-
and superior cardiac surgery. advanced care for the full Care Center. Winthrop’s leled Wound Healing and
Winthrop is known across range of pulmonary conditions advanced facilities and expert Regenerative Medicine pro-
New York State for its excel- from asthma and chronic Stroke Team contributed to gram, and the largest hospital-
lent outcomes in cardiac care obstructive pulmonary dis- Winthrop being named a based renal dialysis program
for men, women and children. ease (COPD) to pulmonary New York State Department on the Island.
hypertension. of Health designated Stroke
Center.
7
10. Winthrop-University Hospital 2011 Annual Report
At Winthrop, we treat the most complex cases
As a major regional healthcare resource with a long-standing pleural effusions or fluid build-up in the space around the
commitment to medical education and research, Winthrop- lungs, among other conditions. Our experts also perform fetal
University Hospital offers patients facing complex health issues shunting drainage procedures to correct, for example, lower
highly sophisticated care, some of which is not available any- urinary tract obstructions that may harm the fetus’ kidneys.
where else in our region.
These and other fetal surgeries are available exclusively through
From unborn babies to elderly patients struggling with chronic Winthrop’s prestigious Maternal Fetal Medicine program. At
illnesses, patients find help—and hope—at Winthrop. Winthrop, not only do we ensure the optimal health of moms-
to-be and ensure the safest possible delivery of babies, but also
Fetal surgery saves babies’ lives we save the lives of at-risk mothers and babies…nothing could
While news of a baby on the way is joyous, pregnancy is be more important.
not without risk. Thanks to Winthrop’s Fetal Surgery Program,
which is the only one on Long Island that allows in-utero Robotic surgery use expands
surgical treatment options, conditions that once may have The sophistication of minimally invasive surgical techniques
threatened a fetus are being treated successfully during early continues to grow, and Winthrop-University Hospital remains a
pregnancy. leader in the use of these procedures. The hospital was the first
on Long Island to acquire the daVinci Si HD Surgical System,
Our team of fetal medicine specialists uses state-of-the-art fetal
the most current equipment of this type.
treatments including fetoscopic laser coagulation procedures to
correct twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome, intrauterine blood Seated at a console a few feet away from the patient, surgeons,
transfusions to treat conditions such as fetal anemia and fetal with their fingers attached to robotic controls, view a high-
thrombocytopenia, and intrauterine shunt catheters to treat definition screen displaying a three-dimensional magnified
8
12. FIRST hospital on
Long Island to acquire the
daVinci Si HD Dual Console
Robotic Surgical System
13. Winthrop-University Hospital 2011 Annual Report
image of the surgical field of interest. Fine surgical instruments Long Island has a higher-than-average incidence of breast
then are placed inside the patient through tiny incisions and cancer. The experts at the Winthrop Breast Health Center pro-
the surgeon is ready to work. vide comprehensive risk assessment, diagnosis, treatment and
follow-up care to patients. The team specializes in the evalua-
Surgeries performed with robotic tools not only are replacing
tion and treatment of all types of breast conditions, including
traditional open surgeries, but also are providing outstanding
benign and malignant breast tumors, breast pain, suspicious
patient outcomes. Among the fastest growing specialty proce-
and abnormal mammograms, previous breast cancer diagnosis
dures being performed at Winthrop with the daVinci surgical
or positive biopsy, and BRCA1 or BRCA2 genetic mutations.
robot are hysterectomies, gynecological oncology surgeries,
colon resections, gastric bypass surgeries, partial nephrecto- In 2011, our Breast Health Center earned a three-year full
mies, and prostatectomies. In 2011, Long Island’s first robotic- accreditation by the National Accreditation Program for Breast
assisted lung surgery was performed at Winthrop, and the Centers (NAPBC), a program administered by the American
Hospital acquired a second daVinci robot, equipped with the College of Surgeons. Winthrop’s Center is only one of 12 such
most sophisticated fluorescent imaging capabilities. centers in New York State and the only center in Nassau
County to achieve this prestigious accreditation.
Winthrop excels in women’s healthcare
HealthGrades, the nation’s leading independent source of
Winthrop-University Hospital has become a nationally recog-
physician information and hospital quality ratings, in 2011 hon-
nized, regional leader in women’s health services.
ored Winthrop with both the Gynecologic Surgery Excellence
An avid runner and skydiver, Connie Murphy appeared to be
in good health when she discovered a small lump in her groin.
The 49-year-old Huntington resident and sales professional was
shocked to learn of her diagnosis of stage 3 ovarian cancer.
After several unsatisfactory consultations, Ms. Murphy sought out Dr. Eva
Chalas, Chief of Gynecologic Oncology and Director of Clinical Cancer Care at
Winthrop, and reports that Dr. Chalas was the only specialist who gave her hope.
“Here at Winthrop, we offer state-of-the-art radical and ultra-radical surgeries
for gynecological cancers,” says Chalas. “And, because of our active research
programs, we also can provide patients with access to innovative therapies,
such as new types of chemotherapy.”
Ms. Murphy underwent a complete hysterectomy and removal of metasta-
sized cancer lesions on surrounding organs, a procedure that took more than
five hours. “The incision ran from my pelvis to the top of my diaphragm,”
Ms. Murphy recalls.
With surgery followed by chemotherapy, Ms. Murphy stayed as physically
active as possible and with Dr. Chalas’ blessing, she was back on her exercise
bicycle two weeks after surgery.
Today, she has returned to her accomplished running routine and skydiving
activity, and is preparing to become a certified skydiving instructor, an outcome
Murphy credits to the care and support she received at Winthrop. “Staying
fit was an important part of my lifestyle, treatment plan and recovery,” says
Ms. Murphy, “and Dr. Chalas supported me in that every step of the way.”
11
14. Winthrop-University Hospital 2011 Annual Report
When 49-year-old music industry marketing professional Tyrone
Kelsie went for his routine physical exam, he was feeling just fine.
“I didn’t feel like anything was wrong,” says the Westbury resident.
A month later he was trying to decide the best treatment option
for prostate cancer.
When Tyrone’s father was diagnosed with prostate cancer several years ago,
his prostate was removed, a path that Tyrone was not keen to follow. With the
help of family and a close friend, Tyrone researched prostate cancer treatments
and learned about CyberKnife. Despite its name, CyberKnife is not surgery,
but rather a technology that provides highly precise radiation therapy to treat
tumors while minimizing damage to surrounding tissue.
Tyrone’s urologist concurred that CyberKnife was an excellent treatment
option and referred him to Winthrop, which was the first CyberKnife Center of LI
and NYC, and is the second largest site in the world for treating prostate cancer
with CyberKnife technology.
“In addition to being highly effective in treating tumors, Cyberknife’s treat-
ment plan calls for 30–40 minutes of radiotherapy a day for an average of
five days,” explains Dr. Jonathan Haas, Chief, Division of Radiation Oncology.
“This is a great benefit to patients, who can continue on with their lives.”
Cancer-free for more than a year, Tyrone, who enjoyed fame in the 1990s
as co-host of the MTV music program, “Yo! MTV Raps,” has become an
advocate for screening and CyberKnife treatment when necessary. “Guys don’t
really want to hear it, but I tell them what happened to me,” he says, adding,
“I’m living a normal, healthy life now, and I thank CyberKnife.”
Award and the HealthGrades Maternity Care Excellence Award. Innovative prostate cancer treatment
Our hospital has a long-standing tradition of excellence in treat Other than skin cancer, prostate cancer is the most common
ing gynecological conditions, including cancer, with the most cancer in American men, according to the American Cancer
sophisticated non- and minimally-invasive surgical procedures. Society. Roughly 1 man in 6 will be diagnosed with prostate
cancer during his lifetime.
Further underscoring its outstanding clinical outcomes in wom-
en’s health, Winthrop was also recognized by HealthGrades as At Winthrop, prostate cancer patients are offered a full array of
a recipient of the 2011 Women’s Health Excellence Award and treatment options, permitting patients and their physicians to
ranked among the top five percent in the nation for Women’s select the most appropriate for the stage of the cancer and the
Health for the second year in a row. health of the patient.
Winthrop is the only hospital in New York State to simulta Minimally invasive surgery using the daVinci Surgical Robot
neously receive the HealthGrades Maternity Care Excellence System is available, as well as intensity-modulated radiation
Award, the HealthGrades Gynecologic Surgery Excellence Award, therapy (IMRT), a radiotherapy that uses a linear accelerator to
and the HealthGrades Women’s Health Excellence Award in deliver precise radiation doses to a malignant tumor or specific
2011, reflecting the unmatched standard of care that women areas within the tumor. Winthrop also offers cryotherapy, a
receive at Winthrop. technique that freezes the tumor, for those patients whose
cancer cannot be treated with surgery.
12
16. More than 37,000
inpatients, over 68,000
emergency visits, 802,000
Outpatient Encounters
at Winthrop faculty &
associated practices
14
17. Winthrop-University Hospital 2011 Annual Report
Perhaps the most exciting advancement in prostate cancer minutes each day for five days or less, adding to the technique’s
treatment is use of CyberKnife technology. Despite its name, many advantages over previous treatments.
CyberKnife is not surgery. Rather, it is a technology that takes
Winthrop currently is one of the few sites in the world using
radiotherapy to new levels, and it has proven highly successful
CyberKnife to treat breast cancer tumors, and our hope is that
for treating prostate cancer. As a matter of fact, Winthrop is
this foundational work will lead to advances in breast cancer
the second largest site in the world for treating prostate cancer
treatment.
with CyberKnife technology. Our hospital also is a designated
CyberKnife training site, attracting surgeons from around the
Life-saving cardiac care
world interested in learning to use this state-of-the-art technology.
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States.
CyberKnife uses a combination of advanced imaging equipment About every 25 seconds an American will have a coronary
and a robotic arm to deliver high doses of radiation therapy event and approximately one person will die each minute as
with higher precision than previously possible. Extraordinarily a result, according to an American Heart Association study.
accurate, the radiation beams can be sculpted to reach small, Winthrop’s Heart and Vascular Institute offers advanced diag-
deeply imbedded, complex masses, thereby minimizing damage nostics and disease prevention programs, as well as a superior
to healthy tissue and providing access to previously unreach- cardiac surgery program and sophisticated medical treatment
able and untreatable tumors throughout the body when radia- and cardiac rehabilitation services that save the lives of thou-
tion therapy is indicated. Treatments generally take 20 to 30 sands of patients each year.
At 39 weeks pregnant, Hempstead resident Tracey Mallory had
already suffered through a host of complications. A busy pro
fessional, Mrs. Mallory was getting prenatal care close to her
workplace in New York City and was planning to deliver at a
hospital there.
But Mrs. Mallory’s plans changed suddenly when she began bleeding and
having contractions while at home on Long Island. Concerned that she did not
have time to make the trip into New York City to see her doctor, her husband
drove her to Winthrop, only minutes away from their home.
“Mrs. Mallory was in active labor and although her plan was for the baby to
be turned so she could deliver naturally, there was just no time,” said Dr. Arin
Buresch, Acting Chief Resident in Ob/Gyn. With her consent, she was brought
into the Operating Room for an emergency C-section.
Dr. Joseph Cioffi, Director, Division of Ob/Gyn Hospitalists at Winthrop,
discovered that uterine fibroids were posing a significant threat to both her and
her baby and that Mrs. Mallory had had a placental abruption, a complication
in which the placental lining separates from the uterus, causing blood to fill up
inside of the amniotic sac.
Dr. Cioffi and his team worked diligently to deliver the baby safely while also
treating Mrs. Mallory’s conditions. Three days later, both Evan and Mrs. Mallory
were discharged from the Hospital in good health.
“Had Mrs. Mallory attempted the trip to the City, her baby would have died
from complications, and she might have died as well from loss of blood. Her
story demonstrates how important it is for women to immediately seek medical
attention from the right institution when complications arise,” Dr. Cioffi said.
15
18. Winthrop-University Hospital 2011 Annual Report
Winthrop’s Cardiac Surgery Program has long been a bench- walk to work or school or to prepare healthy home-cooked
mark for open-heart surgery in New York State and continues to meals on a regular basis.
grow in importance. From open-heart coronary artery bypass
The result has been increased obesity among Americans,
surgery and heart valve repair and replacement to specialized
which has precipitated an unprecedented high rate of Type 2
treatment of aortic disease at the Center for Aortic Diseases,
diabetes. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
cardiac patients have access to the most innovative procedures.
forecast that by 2050 one in three Americans may have this
For example, cardiologists at Winthrop perform transcutaneous disease. Left untreated or poorly managed, the serious side
aortic valve replacement (TAVR), one of the newest techniques effects may include heart disease, blindness, kidney failure
that allows a heart valve to be replaced without open-heart and nerve damage.
surgery. Surgeons insert a catheter into an artery in the groin,
pass through the catheter a thin wire with the new valve Education and management are key
attached and install the new valve from the inside. Percutaneous In an effort to help stem the rising tide of obesity and diabetes,
valve replacement has proven especially helpful for elderly and to provide the best possible care to patients with these
patients who are not candidates for open-heart surgery, provid- conditions, Winthrop-University Hospital has created the
ing improved quality of life for these patients and their families. Winthrop Diabetes and Obesity Institute to coordinate patient
care, medical research and education so as to maximize the
Advances in neuroscience effectiveness of the hospital’s efforts in each area.
As modern science has begun to reveal the mysteries of how
Prevention and treatment of diabetes is a primary focus. The
the brain and central nervous system function, great strides have
Diabetes Education Center at Winthrop-University Hospital,
been achieved in neuroscience. At Winthrop’s Department of
the first diabetes education program in New York State to be
Neuroscience, physicians, surgeons, physician assistants, nurse
accredited by the American Diabetes Association, has been
practitioners and nurses are members of an interdisciplinary
serving as a resource for members of the community since 1979.
team of healthcare professionals that is pioneering the use of
advanced approaches for diagnosis and treatment, including Here adults and children with diabetes or pre-diabetes—and
computerized imaging systems, state-of-the-art surgical inter- their families—can attend education programs, including classes
ventions such as deep brain stimulation and the latest genera- on use of insulin pumps and similar technologies now available
tion of medication therapies. for diabetes management, as well as support groups. The Center
also hosts an extensive variety of programs of interest to over-
In addition to a 14-bed Neurosciences Special Care Unit, the
weight and at-risk children and their parents and caregivers.
Department of Neuroscience boasts comprehensive resources
for diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of conditions,
Improving healthcare professionals’ understanding
including aneurysms, blood clots and tumors and special pro-
Primary care physicians are the front line of defense in manag-
grams for conditions including Multiple Sclerosis, Movement
ing the care of patients with diabetes. In 2011, 41 Winthrop
Disorders, and Epilepsy.
clinicians from six hospital-affiliated primary care practices and
from the endocrinology faculty practice achieved recognition
Addressing the diabetes epidemic and
by The National Committee for Quality Assurance’s (NCQA’s)
its implications
Diabetes Recognition Program (DRP). This designation identi-
Modern conveniences have made our daily lives easier than
fies physicians who are well educated in diabetes management
those of our grandparents, but we’ve paid a price. Most of us
and consistently treat patients according to the best available
no longer have physically demanding jobs. We’re not likely to
scientific evidence. Several New York State grants will continue
16
19. ONE of the Best
Regional Hospitals,
with 11 high performing
specialties
U.S. News & World Report
20. FIRST and only
hospital on L.I. to
successfully attest for
Stage 1 Meaningful
Use of Health
Information Technology
in 2011
21. Winthrop-University Hospital 2011 Annual Report
to fund Winthrop’s efforts to help its affiliated primary care leadership role in our region to improve the health of all who
physicians achieve this level of diabetes care expertise. live here.
Because diabetes is so prevalent, we see many patients with
Every patient is a special patient
the condition in our inpatient population. As a result, the
A hospital, particularly a large, tertiary-care institution like
Diabetes and Obesity Institute coordinates a hospital-wide
Winthrop-University Hospital, can be a daunting place. But,
professional education program aimed at giving physicians,
it does not have to be, and all of us at Winthrop do our best
physician assistants, nurse practitioners, nurses, pharmacists,
every day to make sure that each person who enters our doors
home care workers and medical students the information
feels safe and respected.
necessary to understand the complexities of this disease and
how best to coordinate the care of patients with diabetes. The
Caring for children
Institute also incorporates the various clinical research projects
Children, in particular, need special attention. The Children’s
involving diabetes and will be a premier component of our
Medical Center at Winthrop brings together an impressive
planned Research Institute.
array of pediatric services, as well as pediatric specialists, some
Obesity and diabetes are epidemic in our nation today, which of whom are internationally renowned. In 2011, our Children’s
limits the quality of life for many of our citizens and increases Medical Center was named to U.S. News and World Report’s
general healthcare costs. At Winthrop, we are assuming a Best Children’s Hospitals ranking for providing high-quality
care in the specialty of pediatric diabetes and endocrinology.
Prior to gastric bypass surgery in April 2011, Bob Evans weighed
340 lbs. and was taking 16 medications. He also was using an
insulin pump to control his Type 2 diabetes and a continuous posi-
tive airway pressure (CPAP) machine to cope with his obstructive
sleep apnea. Today, Mr. Evans is down to 207 lbs., five medications,
no insulin pump and no CPAP machine.
Improving his health has been a long journey for Mr. Evans, a retired school
administrator and former music educator. Despite medical advice folowing a
l
sextuple coronary by-pass in March 2003, he did not lose weight. The wake-
up call came two years ago when a national weight loss program declined his
participation because of his health issues.
“That really got me thinking,” Mr. Evans recalls. “My doctor had suggested
gastric bypass surgery a few years before, but I didn’t do it.” Mr. Evans was
referred to Winthrop-University Hospital, which has pioneered the use of the
daVinci Si HD Robotic Surgical System for gastric bypass.
But gastric bypass is not a quick fix; major lifestyle changes in support of
improved health must follow. “It took me a while to adjust my attitude about
eating, but the post-op support I’ve received has been great,” says Mr. Evans,
who regularly attends support group meetings led by a dietician and a nurse
at Winthrop.
His greatest reward since taking charge of his health has been enjoying his
three-year-old grandson. “The thought of not being able to horseplay with him
is unthinkable,” Mr. Evans says.
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22. Winthrop-University Hospital 2011 Annual Report
Day after day, Eric Davidson was continually exhausted, struggling
through his busy day as a commercial and luxury real estate
appraiser. Then came the trouble speaking, the “heavy tongue,”
and finally the hand tremors. He knew he needed medical help.
After Winthrop’s sleep medicine specialists diagnosed him with sleep apnea,
and neurological tests proved inconclusive, he was referred to Nancy Langdon,
RNC, BSN, MPH, patient navigator and clinical coordinator at Winthrop’s Center
for Advanced Care of Chronic Conditions.
“Nurse navigators are not diagnosis or department specific. They try to help
patients who have been frustrated in their attempts to obtain a clear diagnosis
and treatment plan,” says Dr. Michael Niederman, Chairman of the Department
of Medicine and Medical Director of the Center.
Langdon reviewed Mr. Davidson’s medical tests and consulted with his
physicians. She recommended a cardiology workup as a next step, but
Mr. Davidson was skeptical. After all, he did not have classic symptoms of a
cardiac condition. But over time, as symptoms persisted and a clear diagnosis
remained elusive, Mr. Davidson finally agreed to a cardiology work-up. The
tests revealed a 90% blockage of the left artery and he underwent successful
open-heart surgery at Winthrop.
“Nancy saved my life,” says the Levittown resident who, since his surgery,
walks and jogs about eight miles a week. Mr. Davidson continues to work with
Langdon and relies on her to help coordinate his medical care. “Nancy gives
me good information and helps me get the appointments I need,” he says.
“She forces me to keep my health up front.”
Among the special pediatric programs here are the Cancer support groups and community services; serve as the liaison
Center for Kids, Nassau County’s largest facility for children between the medical team and the patient; and, perhaps most
with cancer and blood disorders; pediatric emergency and important, reaffirm for cancer patients and their families the
intensive care units; a New York State Regional Perinatal sense that they do not have to face the challenges alone.
Center, which features a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit with
outcomes among the world’s best, and the Child Life Program, No place like home
which aims to reduce the stress of a hospital stay for children Recuperation from or management of an illness is most effective
and their families. in a patient’s familiar surroundings. Winthrop’s award-winning
certified home healthcare agency offers nursing, as well as
Coping with cancer physical, speech and occupational therapies in conjunction
There are few things more frightening than receiving a cancer with medical social work and home health aide services to
diagnosis. To make the journey from diagnosis through treat- Nassau County residents.
ment easier for patients and their families, Winthrop created
In 2011, our home health agency was named for the fifth
the unique Cancer Navigators Program. These registered nurses
consecutive year to the HomeCare Elite™—a compilation
and physician assistants become a patient’s “go-to” person
of the top-performing home health agencies in the United
for the coordination of appointments, for tests and follow-up
States, attesting to the impressive care provided by our home
care. They offer educational resources; referrals to specialists,
care professionals.
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25. Winthrop-University Hospital 2011 Annual Report
Respecting tradition Within the Hospital setting, there are numerous resources for
Winthrop’s Pastoral Care and Education Program serves the Jewish patients and visitors. These include a Sabbath elevator,
spiritual needs of patients and families by offering healing which stops at each floor on the Sabbath and Yom Tov, and
ministry, spiritual support and pastoral care. Our chaplains may also Glatt Kosher patient meals.
help by contacting clergy of a patient’s faith or by ministering
directly through discussion, prayer, rituals and sacraments. Quality of life and end-of-life care
Chaplains assist patients and their loved ones as they cope Respect, comfort and dignity are essential for those nearing the
with illness, and provide support during times of grief and end of life. Winthrop has on staff three board-certified palliative
bereavement 24 hours a day, seven days a week. care physicians, something not generally found at other institu-
tions. As a result, our patients and their families can be assured
To accommodate the needs of families of observant Jewish
that every effort will be made to alleviate the stresses of this
patients, Winthrop offers a variety of services, including a
difficult time.
Sabbath House. This facility may house up to five families and
offers a kitchen equipped for kosher food handling and lights
Our surgeons are developing tomorrow’s procedures
that turn on automatically in the afternoon and shut off at night
Physicians at Winthrop-University Hospital have made a sig
on the Sabbath.
nificant breakthrough in minimally invasive surgery, treating a
serious condition of the esophagus by passing an endoscope
through a patient’s mouth, thereby avoiding an incision.
When a child is diagnosed with diabetes, management of the
condition becomes a family affair. Taylor Rosenking entered
Winthrop’s Pediatric Diabetes Program at age four when she
was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, a chronic condition in
which the body produces little or no insulin.
“Discovering that my daughter had diabetes was scary,” says Taylor’s
mother, Carol, “but by the time we left Winthrop, I wasn’t scared anymore.” The
multi-disciplinary team in Winthrop’s Pediatric Diabetes Program, which serves
more than 1,000 children in the tri-state area, monitors and treats patients,
and, equally as important, works to educate their families and community
members such as school nurses about effective management of the condition.
“The simplest things, like going on a field trip, aren’t simple for children with
diabetes,” explains Jean Corrigan, RN, MA, Program Director. “They have to
make sure that they have all of their equipment with them, that they will be able
to eat if they need to, and, if they eat, that they will be able to see nutrition
information and count carbs in order to manage their blood glucose levels and
insulin therapy.”
Today, Taylor is an active teenager who loves to dance and who uses an
insulin pump to continuously deliver insulin subcutaneously. The pump elimi-
nates the need for insulin injections, gives Taylor greater flexibility with her
meal plan and allows her to live and enjoy a full life.
“I remember how I felt when I first was diagnosed with diabetes and how
many challenges I faced,” she says. “I want kids to know that they are not
alone, and that they can’t let diabetes stop them from anything.”
23
26. Winthrop-University Hospital 2011 Annual Report
For Louis Alexander, singing is a way of life. Whether he is
enchanting an audience with Donizetti’s “Una Furtiva Lagrima”
or serenading his grandchildren with playful lullabies, his rich
tenor voice carries people away. Yet, while the sounds of music
had no trouble rising up from his vocal cords, he was suffering
with a disorder known as Achalasia that made it impossible for
food and beverages to pass into his stomach. At the age of 87,
Mr. Alexander found that he was routinely regurgitating his food
as it was unable to pass through a tightly closed lower esophageal
sphincter (LES).
As his weight continued to drop, Mr. Alexander was dissatisfied with treat-
ment options he’d been offered. Then he heard that Dr. Stavros Stavropoulos,
Director of the Advanced Endoscopy Program at Winthrop, was pioneering an
innovative, effective and minimally invasive method for treating the disease.
This elegant new technique—peroral endoscopic myotomy, or P.O.E.M.
—involves passing an endoscope through the mouth and into the esophagus
and, through an exquisitely delicate procedure, making an incision in the LES
from the inside.
Knowing that the procedure was not available anywhere else in the eastern
U.S., Mr. Alexander was happy to have found his solution at Winthrop. As a
long time patient of Dr. Kevin Marzo, Chief of the Division of Cardiology at
Winthrop, Mr. Alexander is a regular participant in the Cardiology Patient Talent
Showcase, pioneered by Dr. Marzo as a way to incorporate music into healing
and to celebrate good health. Today, Mr. Alexander is back to eating normally
and looking forward to his next vocal performance.
The technique, referred to as N.O.T.E.S. (natural orifice trans Dr. Stavropoulos, in collaboration with Dr. Collin E. Braithwaite,
luminal endoscopic surgery), involves inserting an endoscope Chief of the Division of Minimally Invasive and Bariatric Surgery,
(a thin tube with a built-in camera, light and miniscule tools) were the first in the U.S. to perform the peroral endoscopic
through the natural orifices of the body. myotomy (P.O.E.M.) and Dr. Stavropoulos continues to pioneer
the further development of the technique.
Nearly 20 patients with achalasia, a condition which makes it
difficult for swallowed food and liquids to pass into the stomach, The success of Winthrop’s surgeons in using this technique
have been successfully treated this way at Winthrop. opens the possibility of using N.O.T.E.S. for a wider range
of procedures. For example, the technique could be used to
The classic achalasia treatment, the Heller Myotomy, is open
biopsy lymph nodes within the chest and abdomen—a proce-
surgery that dates back to 1913. More recently, laparoscopic
dure that is currently performed by a more invasive surgical
surgery involving multiple small incisions has been used.
procedure called mediastinoscopy that involves inserting rigid
The new procedure performed at Winthrop by Dr. Stavros
instruments into the chest through an incision in the patient’s
Stavropoulos, Director of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy and
neck. The revolutionary N.O.T.E.S. approach enables surgeons
Director of Winthrop’s Advanced Endoscopy Program, is
to do surgery from the inside.
the least invasive—with no external incisions—and equally
effective with the quickest recovery time.
24
27. FOURTH year in a
row among the top 5%
of hospitals Nationwide
28. Winthrop-University Hospital 2011 Annual Report
Research with diabetes, it is difficult for wounds to heal. Winthrop
researchers are studying the basic biological mechanisms
Where there is inquiry and learning, clinical care is optimal. underlying this problem and developing clinical approaches
Winthrop-University Hospital has a long-standing research to improve wound care in practice settings. Some of these
tradition, and that is one of the reasons we are able to attract groundbreaking studies have been supported by major grants
and retain high-caliber medical professionals and deliver the from the National Institutes of Health.
impressive level of care our patients receive. Researchers here
Winthrop researchers are analyzing the mechanism underlying
are working every day to find solutions to our nation’s most
changes in the cognitive performance of people with diabetes,
pressing health issues.
and they already have presented breakthrough research indi-
cating that the small- and large-blood vessel complications of
Understanding diabetes and obesity
diabetes, combined with direct effect of high blood sugars on
Diabetes and obesity are a major research focus at Winthrop.
brain cells, could account for cognitive performance changes
Our scientists and physicians are studying pancreatic beta cells
in a large group of diabetes patients studied.
—which produce insulin—in hopes of understanding why they
fail and improving treatment of diabetes. Recent accomplish-
Reducing premature births
ments include the development of a non-invasive new method
More than half a million babies are born prematurely in the
of measuring beta cell death by quantifying the DNA from dam
United States each year, according to the Centers for Disease
aged and destroyed beta cells in the blood of diabetic patients.
Control and Prevention. Because pre-term babies are at high
Wound care in patients with diabetes is another area of inquiry. risk for serious health problems, ensuring full-term pregnancies
Because of the nerve damage and circulatory issues associated is crucial.
Louis Ragolia, Ph.D., Director of Biomedical Research
26
29. Winthrop-University Hospital 2011 Annual Report
Alan M. Jacobson, MD, Chief Research Officer
Under a March of Dimes grant, Winthrop researchers currently Osteoporosis is a major concern for the elderly, particularly
are studying the potential for using low levels of carbon mon- women. A current study at Winthrop is looking at the effective-
oxide as a preventive treatment for pregnant women at risk of ness of vitamin D and calcium in preventing osteoporosis in
delivering pre-term babies. African-American women.
Neuroscience research related to the elderly also is a focus.
The aging process
Among the work under way is a study of neurodegeneration,
Whether or not you believe that 60 is the new 40, the truth is
the cause of diseases such as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
that life expectancy in the United States is getting longer. And,
(ALS) and Parkinson’s disease. Parkinson’s affects approxi-
on Long Island in particular, the percentage of older residents
mately 1 million U.S. citizens, and ALS has no current avail
is increasing.
able treatment.
Among the Winthrop research initiatives aimed at improving
the health of older adults is an investigation of the link between Cancer
COX-2 inhibitors, popular drugs used to treat pain and inflam- As an academic institution, Winthrop is the site of some of the
mation in conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, and increased most current clinical trials and research into cancer, ensuring
risk for stroke and heart attack. Our team is developing ways that patients have access to the latest therapies.
in which to make these drugs less toxic to the cardiovascular
The Hospital’s cancer specialists and researchers are involved
system, which would benefit patients in need of pain relief
in rigorous basic and clinical studies of a wide variety of can-
but who are currently avoiding these drugs because of safety
cers, including lung cancer, childhood cancers, blood cancers,
concerns.
27
30. Winthrop-University Hospital 2011 Annual Report
John F. Aloia, MD, Chief Academic Officer, announces the creation of the Winthrop-University Hospital Clinical Campus of Stony Brook University School of Medicine.
colorectal cancer and gynecological cancers. In fact, in 2011, research, outcomes research, medical education classrooms
Winthrop was named as one of only three sites nationwide to and support services.
offer a clinical trial for an ovarian cancer vaccine.
In addition to coordinating the research currently under way
Winthrop researchers are also analyzing predictors of long- at Winthrop’s various Institutes and Centers of Excellence, the
term survival in breast and other cancers. Another study is new building will allow greater interaction between researchers
aimed at developing an approach to using multiple methods and clinicians. For example, one floor will house outpatient
simultaneously to treat cancers of the bile ducts, gallbladder services for adult and pediatric endocrine patients, which will
and liver. increase collaboration among those studying diseases such
as diabetes and those caring for such patients. The benefit to
Research has helped us make great strides in the prevention,
current and future patients from such a partnership will be
diagnosis and treatment of cancer. But, much remains to be
substantial.
learned, and at Winthrop our researchers continue the quest.
Taking research to the next level Academics
Patient care, academics and research are the three components
For more than half a century, Winthrop-University Hospital
of Winthrop’s mission. Because research is so essential, Winthrop
has been a leading center for medical education, and in 2011 it
has initiated creation of a dedicated Research Institute.
expanded its role by becoming a full-fledged Clinical Campus
The four-story, 95,000-square-foot facility to be built on our of the Stony Brook University School of Medicine.
campus will house basic science research, clinical/translational
28
31. Winthrop-University Hospital 2011 Annual Report
Prior to this new designation, Winthrop was a Stony Brook We have a long-standing tradition in graduate medical educa-
teaching affiliate and hosted medical student rotations through tion; our internal medicine program has been accredited since
various clinical departments, and many of our physicians hold 1966. Today, specialized, advanced training in nearly every
faculty positions at Stony Brook. Now, 80 third-year and major medical specialty is offered here. Our newest program, a
fourth-year Stony Brook medical students will live and train fellowship in allergy and immunology training, is the only such
at Winthrop each year. We are the only Long Island hospital program on Long Island.
training medical students under this model.
Additionally, Winthrop hosts a variety of continuing education
The clinical campus concept was developed in response to the programs for practicing physicians so that they may bring the
anticipated national physician workforce shortage. The Associ newest treatments and technologies to their patients.
ation of American Medical Colleges has challenged U.S. medi-
cal schools to increase class size by 30% by 2015. Inquiry spurs improved care
Integral to a strong academic program is research. It stimulates
We are pleased to be able to expand Stony Brook’s capacity to
inquiry and learning and as such contributes to improved clini-
train medical students, thereby ensuring that residents of our
cal care as questions find answers.
region continue to enjoy access to the highest quality healthcare.
Winthrop has boosted its faculty development efforts so as
Graduate medical education: the tradition continues to allow more of our physicians to participate actively in
Winthrop offers 25 residency and fellowship programs scholarship. Under an internal competitive grant program,
for graduated physicians: 19 independent programs spon faculty and fellows may apply for research funding.
sored by Winthrop and six integrated with other major
academic centers.
At Winthrop, medical students, residents and fellows gain real world experience while learning from highly accomplished practicing physicians such as
Adel Hanna, MD (left).
29
32. Winthrop-University Hospital 2011 Annual Report
Among the topics and conditions studied in this academic As a result, the hospital qualified for the financial incentive
research program are obesity and diabetes, end-stage renal program established by the American Recovery and Reinvest
disease, causes of premature labor, vascular disease, gastroin- ment Act of 2009 and received $3.2 million from the U.S.
testinal treatment and ovarian cancer. This enrichment program Department of Health and Human Services to continue imple-
supports clinical investigators as they test new ideas and obtain menting its HIT program. At the close of 2011, Winthrop was
data in order to be in a better position to apply for and obtain one of only four hospitals in New York State to qualify for the
external funding. incentive. Fewer than 4 percent of hospitals in the United States
have reached this milestone of technology implementation.
Technology Effective technology improves patient safety
The desire to maintain the highest level of patient safety has The EHR system provides for Computerized Provider Order
always been the impetus for Winthrop’s Health Information Entry through which physicians and other healthcare providers
Technology (HIT) initiatives, and it’s the reason we are a leader input medication and other orders into a computer system.
in adopting technology. This eliminates handwriting errors, expedites the sharing of
information and facilitates quality patient care.
In 2006, Winthrop-University Hospital began implementing
an electronic health record (EHR) system, which now operates For example, when a medication order is entered into the sys-
hospital-wide. Last year, we became the first and only Long tem, the system checks for possible contraindications based on
Island hospital to demonstrate meaningful use of EHR technol- the patient’s medical record. And by scanning and matching
ogy during the 2011 federal fiscal year. the barcode on the drug to the barcode on the patient’s ID
John McNelis, MD, FACS, Vice Chairman of the Department of Surgery, uses “Winnie” the robot to see patients when he is not in the Hospital.
30
33. Winthrop-University Hospital 2011 Annual Report
Maureen Gaffney, MHS, RPAC, RN, Winthrop’s Senior Vice President for Patient Care Services and Chief Medical Information Officer, combines her clinical
experience and technological savvy to foster the best possible environment for healing.
bracelet at the bedside, nurses have a reliable mechanism Health IT trailblazers—on Long Island and beyond
by which they confirm correct patient, correct medication, As an early adopter of health IT, Winthrop has been able to
correct dose and correct time. If there is any contraindication capitalize on its relationships and experiences to help develop
or discrepancy, the system alerts the provider, thereby averting the next generation of these tools. We collaborate with industry
potential medication errors. and academia and currently we are piloting a scheduling sys-
tem that will reduce patient wait times for certain tests and
Winthrop last year installed a cloud-based picture archival
procedures. We are also helping to develop a touch screen
system in the Imaging Services department. Radiology images
device-based bedside system to facilitate communication
are stored remotely but can be accessed easily throughout the
between patients and nurses.
Winthrop system. Not only does this facilitate sharing of crucial
information among the health professionals treating a patient, Winthrop-University Hospital is a founding member of the
but also it safeguards the ability to access images should there E-Health Network of Long Island, the regional health infor
be an unexpected system interruption on site. mation organization working toward interconnectivity with
healthcare providers in other parts of the state—and ultimately
Last year, we also began a patient consent initiative to ensure
nationwide—through compatible health information exchange
that patients can control access to their electronic health record.
systems.
The portability of health records will result in better patient
care and reduced costs because health professionals treating a
patient outside of his or her physician practice or hospital will
have access to the patient’s critical health information.
31
34. Winthrop-University Hospital 2011 Annual Report
Michael Ammazzalorso, MD, MACP, Chief Medical Officer & Associate Chairman of the Department of Medicine, leads the world-class medical staff at Winthrop.
Distinguished Medical they do, Winthrop doctors are recognized regularly with awards
for clinical, academic and research excellence. And all the
Staff while, they provide the highly personalized and compassionate
care that has made Winthrop the hospital of choice for so many
Winthrop’s medical staff—which includes more than 1,300 patients and their families.
full-time and voluntary attending physicians—cared for more
Many Winthrop medical staff hold academic appointments at
than 37,000 inpatients, handled more than 68,000 emergency
Stony Brook University School of Medicine and are actively
visits, and conducted more than 800,000 outpatient appoint-
engaged in teaching medical students. This activity ranges from
ments in 2011. And that’s just their clinical work. They are
teaching in the classroom to mentoring students in physician
also esteemed professors, respected researchers, and prolific
practice offices and at the hospital.
publishers of original medical literature.
In 2011, 86 Winthrop physicians were named to Castle Connolly’s
Top Doctors: NY Metro Area edition. Winthrop doctors hold Pa r t nership s
leadership positions with national organizations and many have Winthrop is…
earned prestigious NIH and other federal grants. Physicians at a partner in the Winthrop South Nassau University Health System
Winthrop participate in Clinical Research Trials to offer the a member of the New York-Presbyterian Healthcare System
latest available treatment options, and maintain a steadfast a member of the Nassau-Suffolk Hospital Council
commitment to quality, efficient resource utilization, preventing a member of the Long Island Health Network
unnecessary admissions and appropriate transitional care. In a founding member of the e-Health Network of Long Island
recognition of their commitment to superior quality in all that
32
35. Winthrop University Hospital 2011 Annual Report
Winthrop’s Chief Operating Officer, Garry J. Schwall, MBA, RPA, drives growth and advancement of Hospital programs, services and facilities.
36. Winthrop-University Hospital 2011 Annual Report
Winthrop-University Hospital Campus
Winthrop-University Hospital owns 50 buildings, Major Properties—Key (owned and leased)
including the main hospital and parking garage and
1—Winthrop-University Hospital
others at the 259 First Street address in Mineola, and
2—Biomedical Services
more than 30 nearby houses and two apartment
3—Parking Garage
buildings, which provide housing for the residents
4—Loading Dock & Support Services
who serve the hospital and its patients 24/7, as well
5—Professional Offices
as other key medical staff and the medical students
6—Academic & Research Offices, Labs
who study and practice at the hospital full time as
7—Community Outreach Center
part of Winthrop’s Clinical Campus of the Stony
8—Diabetes Education Center
Brook University School of Medicine. In addition,
9—Medical Offices
Winthrop has a major long-term lease presence
10—Medical Offices
in dozens more properties from Garden City to
11—Medical & Professional Offices
Bethpage and beyond.
12—Radiation Oncology
The hospital has 27 faculty medical practices and 13 13—Employee Parking
Article 28 facilities—medical practices that are off- 14—Administrative Offices
site extensions of the main hospital. Among these are 15–20—Residential
the Cancer Center for Kids in Mineola, the region’s 21–31—Residential
largest outpatient facility for children with cancer and 32–46—Residential
hematologic conditions, a pediatric practice and a 47—Residential
Women’s Wellness Ob/Gyn practice, both located in 48—Wedgewood Apartments, Residential
Hempstead. In addition, Winthrop is affiliated with 49—Nassau Towers, Residential
more than 111 physician practices from New York 50—Heart & Vascular Institute
City to the East End of Long Island. 51—Wellness Pavilion
52—Medical, Professional Offices
This extensive list of locations represents the breadth
and depth of services offered by Winthrop, extra
ordinary access to the best possible healthcare for
communities across the region, and a tremendous
economic contribution to Long Island’s economy
(see chart pg. 36).
34